About this Unit
The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW) was commissioned on July 10, 1941, at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina. During World War II, the unit played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater, providing air support in key campaigns such as the Battle of Okinawa and the capture of Iwo Jima. In subsequent decades, 2nd MAW participated in the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terror, supporting Marine operations with fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. Today, the 2nd MAW remains a vital component of the United States Marine Corps, delivering air support, assault support, and reconnaissance capabilities to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces worldwide.
Historical Facts
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Establishment: The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW) was commissioned on July 10, 1941, at Marine Corps Air Station San Diego, California, just months before the United States entered World War II.
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WWII Pacific Campaigns: 2nd MAW provided critical air support during major Pacific battles, including the Solomon Islands, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, Guam, Peleliu, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa.
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Battle of Midway Contribution: Elements of the 2nd MAW played a key role in the defense of Midway Island in June 1942, an event that turned the tide of war in the Pacific.
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Korean War Deployment: The 2nd MAW contributed pilots and squadrons to support Marine ground forces during the Korean War, providing close air support and interdiction missions.
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Vietnam War Operations: 2nd MAW squadrons flew thousands of combat sorties in support of Marine and allied ground forces during the Vietnam War, earning several unit commendations.
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Desert Storm: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, 2nd MAW units flew over 4,800 combat sorties, providing close air support, reconnaissance, and logistical support for the coalition forces.
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Humanitarian Assistance: 2nd MAW has been involved in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief efforts after hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters in the U.S. and abroad.
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Modern Aircraft: The 2nd MAW operates a diverse fleet, including F/A-18 Hornets, AV-8B Harriers, MV-22B Ospreys, CH-53E Super Stallions, and AH-1Z Viper helicopters.
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Home Base: The wing is headquartered at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, one of the largest Marine Corps air stations in the world.
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Global Deployments: Over the past two decades, 2nd MAW units have deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations worldwide, supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve.
